So despite the protestations of the Jackson family, who understandably want to point the finger of blame at somebody, Dr Murray, 57, will be technically permitted to work in California — though he actually practises in Texas and Nevada.

This way, he'll be able to pay for his legal defence, with the trial coming up in August. He will not, I gather, be able to prescribe the anaesthetic propofol, which is just as well, since it's supposed to be used in operating theatres, and not by general practioners as a home sleeping aid.